Wheelchair-Friendly Adventures in Moose, Wyoming!

Mormon Row Historic District

Why Visit?

Embark on a breathtaking journey through time at the Mormon Row Historic District in Grand Teton National Park, where history and stunning landscapes meet. This wheelchair-accessible tour offers a unique glimpse into the early 20th-century homesteading life, set against the dramatic backdrop of the Teton Range.

Starting Point: Craig Thomas Discovery and Visitor Center

Kick off your adventure at the Craig Thomas Discovery and Visitor Center, accessible by car with ample disabled parking. Inside, explore the exhibits that provide a primer on the area"s natural history and the pioneers. Wheelchair-accessible restrooms and a gift shop are available to ensure a comfortable start to your day.

Travel to Mormon Row

From the visitor center, head south on US-191 for about 12 minutes, then turn right onto Antelope Flats Road. A 1.6-mile drive leads you to the Mormon Row Historic District. The road and parking lot are unpaved but generally manageable for wheelchairs and scooters during good weather conditions.

Exploring Mormon Row

The highlight of the tour is the iconic T.A. Moulton Barn, one of the most photographed barns in America due to its stunning setting. The path to the barn is compacted dirt and may require assistance for manual wheelchair users. Interpretative signs along the way detail the hardy lives of the homesteaders.

Rest and Reflect

Enjoy a serene picnic at one of the accessible picnic areas along Mormon Row. Here, you can take in the panoramic views of the Tetons and watch for wildlife.

Engaging Facts

- The Mormon Row settlers originally established 27 homesteads in the early 1900s.

- This area is not only a historical treasure but also a habitat for bison, pronghorns, and a variety of bird species.

Wrap Up

Conclude your tour by retracing your journey back to the visitor center, filled with memories of the majestic landscapes and historic charm of Mormon Row.

Wheelchair-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to wheelchair-friendly travelers.

Grand Teton National Park

Why Visit?

Wheelchair-Friendly Tour of Grand Teton National Park

Day 1: Arrival and Orientation

Begin your adventure at the Craig Thomas Discovery and Visitor Center in Moose, easily accessible by vehicle from Jackson, Wyoming. This center is equipped with ramps and automatic doors, making it a breeze to explore the exhibits about the park"s history and wildlife. Don"t miss the stunning Teton Range backdrop—perfect for an accessible photo op.

Day 2: Scenic Drive and Lakeside Serenity

Take a morning drive along the Teton Park Road, designed with many pullouts offering spectacular accessible views of the landscape. Stop at the Signal Mountain Summit Road (open seasonally) for panoramic views accessible via paved paths and platforms. Continue to Jenny Lake, where the new visitor center provides accessible restrooms, parking, and an information counter. Enjoy an accessible shuttle boat ride across the lake (check availability), or relax by the shore and soak in the majestic views.

Day 3: Wildlife Watching and Historic Sites

Head north to the Willow Flats Overlook, a prime spot for viewing wildlife from an accessible viewing platform. Moose, elk, and occasionally bears, are seen here against the backdrop of Mt. Moran. Next, visit the historic Moulton Barns at Mormon Row, accessible via a flat, compacted gravel path. These iconic barns against the Teton skyline provide one of the most photographed scenes in the park.

Day 4: Leisure and Departure

Spend your final day at Colter Bay Visitor Center. The center offers exhibits accessible by wheelchair, an accessible lakeside trail, and stunning views of Jackson Lake and the Tetons. Perfect for a leisurely day before concluding your trip.

Interesting Fact: Grand Teton National Park has been increasingly focusing on accessibility, ensuring that the beauty of the park is available to all visitors, making it a pioneer in accessibility among national parks.

Make your trip to Grand Teton not just a visit, but an accessible adventure of a lifetime!

Wheelchair-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to wheelchair-friendly travelers.

Jackson Lake

Why Visit?

Embark on an unforgettable journey around Jackson Lake, situated in the majestic Grand Teton National Park. This wheelchair-accessible adventure promises breathtaking views, fascinating wildlife, and serene lakeside relaxation.

Getting There

Access Jackson Lake via the John D. Rockefeller, Jr. Parkway, located between Yellowstone National Park and Grand Teton National Park. The closest airports are in Jackson, Wyoming, and Idaho Falls, Idaho, with rental options for mobility scooters or accessible vans available.

Itinerary

Day 1: Colter Bay Visitor Center

Start your tour at the Colter Bay Visitor Center. It features accessible parking, restrooms, and pathways. Enjoy interactive exhibits about the area’s natural history and the Native American artifacts. Ranger-led programs, which are often accessible, provide insights into the park’s ecosystem and history.

Day 2: Jackson Lake Dam

Visit the Jackson Lake Dam, easily accessible with paved parking and clear viewpoints. The dam offers a panoramic view of the Tetons reflecting on the vast lake – perfect for photographers! Learn about the dam’s role in irrigation and how it transformed the local landscape when constructed in 1911.

Day 3: Signal Mountain Lodge

Head to Signal Mountain Lodge for a day of leisure and exploration. The lodge offers accessible dining with views of the lake. Nearby, the Signal Mountain Summit Road (seasonal access) is a paved route ideal for sturdy mobility scooters, culminating in spectacular views of the entire Teton Range and Jackson Hole valley.

Interesting Fact

Jackson Lake is not entirely natural; it was significantly enlarged by the construction of the dam, which increased its surface area to 25,540 acres!

Throughout your visit, paved paths and boardwalks along the lake shores provide numerous spots for relaxation and wildlife watching, making your tour both comfortable and invigorating. Enjoy your accessible adventure at Jackson Lake, where nature’s beauty is open to all.

Wheelchair-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to wheelchair-friendly travelers.

Oxbow Bend

Why Visit?

Wheelchair-Friendly Tour Itinerary: Oxbow Bend, Grand Teton National Park

Morning Arrival

Start your day early by heading to Oxbow Bend, known for its stunning reflections of Mount Moran and rich wildlife. Located just a couple of miles east of Jackson Lake Junction on Highway 89/191, this scenic spot provides accessible parking and viewing areas. Upon arrival, utilize the designated handicap parking spaces which are well-marked and located close to the best viewing platform.

Sightseeing and Photography

From the parking area, a paved, wheelchair-accessible path leads you directly to a viewing platform offering panoramic views of the bend. The platform is spacious and provides a perfect vantage point for photography. Capture the serene waters mirroring the sky and peaks, while enjoying the tranquil environment. Oxbow Bend is especially magical in the early morning when the light is soft, and wildlife is most active.

Wildlife Watching

Keep your binoculars handy! Oxbow Bend is a habitat for many animals including beavers, otters, and moose. Bird enthusiasts will appreciate the abundant birdlife; look for bald eagles, ospreys, and a variety of waterfowl. The area’s accessibility ensures everyone can enjoy these fantastic wildlife viewing opportunities.

Picnic Lunch

Around noon, head over to the nearby Jackson Lake Picnic Area, which is accessible and offers covered tables. Enjoy a leisurely lunch surrounded by nature’s beauty.

Afternoon Exploration

Post-lunch, consider a visit to the Colter Bay Visitor Center, a short drive away, offering accessible facilities, interactive exhibits, and more spectacular views of the Teton Range. Engage with the exhibits that detail the history and geology of the park, enhancing your appreciation of this unique ecosystem.

Departure

Conclude your visit by late afternoon, ensuring a leisurely pace back to your accommodation, with memories of a day well spent amidst nature’s grandeur at Oxbatch Bend.

Wheelchair-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to wheelchair-friendly travelers.

Jenny Lake Trail

Why Visit?

Wheelchair-Accessible Tour of Jenny Lake Trail, Grand Teton National Park

Getting There

Begin your journey into the pristine wilderness of Grand Teton National Park by heading to Jenny Lake, a focal point of natural beauty. The nearest major airport is in Jackson Hole, approximately 30 miles away, with car rentals available to reach the park entrance. Once at Jenny Lake, accessible parking spaces are provided near the visitor center.

Overview

Discover the magnificent Jenny Lake Trail, renowned for its breathtaking views and accessible pathways. The trail offers a modified, wheelchair-friendly route ensuring everyone can enjoy the majestic scenery. It"s advisable to check in at the Jenny Lake Visitor Center for the latest trail conditions and to borrow a free, all-terrain wheelchair if needed, ensuring a comfortable and safe experience.

Jenny Lake Trail Experience

Start at the Jenny Lake Visitor Center, equipped with accessible restrooms and parking. From here, roll out on the paved trail that skirts the eastern shore of Jenny Lake. This section offers stunning views across the water to the towering peaks of the Tetons.

Continue to the scenic boat dock area where, during summer, an accessible shuttle boat can take you across the lake to Hidden Falls and Inspiration Point—a must-see for any visitor. The boat crew assists with boarding and disembarking, making this exhilarating trip possible for everyone.

Wheel along the western shore’s level path to reach the viewpoint for Hidden Falls, an awe-inspiring waterfall that cascades from the rugged cliffs above. Information panels along the trail provide fascinating insights into the area"s geology and wildlife, enhancing your connection to this unique landscape.

Wrap-Up

End your day with a serene picnic by the lake, utilizing the accessible picnic tables. As the sun sets over the Tetons, reflect on the unforgettable sights and sounds of Jenny Lake, a truly inclusive wilderness experience for all visitors.

Wheelchair-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to wheelchair-friendly travelers.